Design Researcher I Hugo

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Researcher I Hugo

Company: Corgan

Location: London, England, United Kingdom

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Design Research & Innovation

Date Posted: April 18, 2026

Experience Level: 5-10 years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is focused on advancing Corgan's design research practice through innovative methodologies and data-driven insights, directly impacting architectural and interior design projects.

• The Design Researcher will collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including designers, engineers, and stakeholders, to refine concepts and ensure research feasibility.

• Responsibilities include conducting user studies, interviews, surveys, and analyzing qualitative and quantitative data to inform design solutions.

• The position requires a proactive individual passionate about exploring emerging technologies and human behavior to shape the future of architecture and foster innovation within the firm.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the input job title is "Design Researcher I Hugo", the provided description clearly indicates a role within a specialized "Research and Innovation team" (Hugo) at Corgan. This implies a focus beyond traditional design research, extending into strategic innovation, future-casting, and the application of research to architectural practice. The role requires a strong blend of research acumen and design thinking, with an emphasis on translating insights into tangible design solutions. The "I" in the title suggests it may be an entry-level position within this specialized team, but the 5-10 years of experience requirement contradicts this. For the purpose of this enhanced description, we will assume the experience requirement is accurate and the "I" might denote a specific internal designation rather than a seniority level.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive user studies, including interviews, surveys, and on-site observations, to gather and analyze user data.

• Support and facilitate research efforts by meticulously organizing and archiving research findings and methodologies.

• Collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams (designers, engineers, stakeholders) to refine concepts, ensure feasibility, and integrate research insights into project designs.

• Plan and execute visioning workshops and critique sessions to contribute to the overall project vision and strategic direction.

• Explore emerging technologies and human behaviors to generate novel ideas and innovative solutions for clients and internal design teams.

• Contribute to the development and refinement of Corgan's design research practice and the integration of innovation methodologies across various sectors.

• Address complex design challenges with creative, user-centered solutions, demonstrating strong problem-solving skills.

• Effectively manage time and prioritize tasks across multiple concurrent projects and deadlines to ensure timely delivery of research outcomes.

• Stay abreast of industry trends, emerging technologies, and thought leadership to inform research and innovation initiatives.

• Author and edit thought leadership articles for publication, showcasing Corgan's expertise in design research and innovation.

• Provide direct support to the Hugo Director, assisting with ongoing research, website development, and studio projects through creative approaches and methodology recommendations.

• Identify efficient methods for information gathering and present research findings and design recommendations clearly and compellingly to clients.

• Utilize data-driven insights to develop innovative design solutions, prototypes, and proofs of concept that align with user needs and architectural/interior design principles.

• Identify and propose opportunities for establishing strategic partnerships with external experts and research institutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The original description lists many responsibilities. These have been refined to be more actionable and to highlight the strategic and collaborative aspects crucial for a Design Researcher in an innovation-focused role. The emphasis is on translating research into tangible design outcomes and contributing to the firm's intellectual capital and practice development.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Professional degree with a focus on Design Research, Design and Environmental Analysis, Human-Centered Design, or a closely related field.

Experience:

• 5-10 years of dedicated experience in design research.

• Demonstrated experience working within the Architecture, Interior Design industry, or a related built environment field.

• Familiarity with User Experience (UX) Research principles, Design Strategy frameworks, and/or Evidence-Based Design methodologies.

Required Skills:

• Expertise in recommending and applying appropriate research methodologies tailored to specific research contexts and objectives.

• Strong ability to identify unmet needs and opportunity zones through creative research approaches.

• Exceptional communication skills for effectively conveying design ideas and research findings to diverse audiences, including clients, team members, and stakeholders.

• Receptiveness to feedback and the ability to provide constructive criticism to others in a professional manner.

• A proven track record of thriving in ambiguous environments and collaborating effectively within cross-disciplinary teams.

• A genuine passion for creating successful user experiences within the built environment, coupled with a "curiosity-first" mindset.

Preferred Skills:

• Graphic design capability for compelling Data Visualization.

• Experience with design and implementation processes.

• Proficiency in 3D modeling programs such as Adobe Creative Suite, SketchUp, or Revit.

• Hands-on experience with usability platforms and research tools including UserTesting, dscout, Qualtrics, Survey Monkey, Microsoft Forms, Power BI, or Tableau.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications have been structured to clearly delineate required versus preferred skills, aligning with industry expectations for a Design Researcher role with a significant experience requirement. The emphasis is on research methodologies, communication, and a user-centric approach within the built environment. The inclusion of specific software and platforms in the preferred skills section provides clear technical expectations.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a clear progression from research initiation through data analysis to actionable design recommendations and their impact.

• Showcase examples of user studies, interviews, or surveys conducted, detailing the methodology and participant selection.

• Present case studies that highlight the application of research findings to solve specific design problems or create innovative solutions.

• Include examples of data visualization and the translation of complex data into understandable insights for various stakeholders.

Process Documentation:

• Clearly articulate the research process followed for each project, including problem definition, methodology selection, data collection, analysis, and synthesis.

• Document the integration of research findings into design workflows and decision-making processes.

• Outline how research insights were used to iterate on designs, test hypotheses, and validate solutions.

• Detail the methods used for archiving research efforts and knowledge management within a team or organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Design Researcher role, a portfolio is crucial. This section emphasizes the need to showcase the entire research lifecycle, from initial inquiry to impactful design application. It also highlights the importance of documenting the process, which is key for demonstrating methodological rigor and the ability to contribute to a scalable research practice.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance, including medical, dental, and vision coverage.

• Generous paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation days, sick leave, and public holidays.

• Pension scheme with employer contributions to support long-term financial planning.

• Opportunities for professional development, including training, workshops, conferences, and support for relevant certifications.

• Access to Corgan's internal learning resources, research library, and innovation initiatives.

• Employee assistance program (EAP) offering confidential counseling and support services.

Working Hours:

• This is a full-time, on-site position requiring 40 hours per week, typically Monday through Friday during standard business hours. While a structured schedule is expected, Corgan's culture may offer some flexibility for focused work and project needs, provided essential functions and collaboration requirements are met.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary was estimated based on the specified experience level (5-10 years), the high cost of living and competitive market in London, and the specialized nature of design research within an architecture firm. Benefits are standard for professional roles in the UK and are tailored to attract and retain talent in specialized fields. The working hours are explicitly stated as on-site and standard, as per the job description.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Architecture and Design Services. Corgan operates within the competitive and dynamic architecture and design sector, where innovation, client focus, and design excellence are paramount. The firm's emphasis on "great design" and "building each other" suggests a culture that values both professional output and employee development.

Company Size: Corgan is a large organization, as indicated by its status as a major architectural firm. This suggests a structured environment with established processes, diverse project types, and ample opportunities for cross-functional collaboration and career progression.

Founded: While the founding date is not provided, Corgan's established presence in the industry implies a history of successful projects and a legacy of design expertise. This history likely underpins its current culture of continuous learning and innovation.

Team Structure:

• The Hugo team is Corgan's dedicated Research and Innovation arm, suggesting it operates with a degree of autonomy while remaining integrated with the broader design studios.

• The Design Researcher will report to the Hugo Director, indicating a clear reporting line within this specialized unit.

Methodology:

• The Hugo team's focus is on investigating emerging technologies and human behavior to forecast future impacts on architecture.

• Emphasis is placed on creating data-driven solutions and fostering innovative research that adds value to projects and clients.

• The team likely employs a blend of academic research rigor and agile innovation practices to explore new concepts and develop proofs of concept.

Company Website: www.corgan.com

📝 Enhancement Note: This section synthesizes information from the company URL, the job description's tone, and general knowledge of the architecture industry. The "Hugo team" is positioned as a strategic innovation hub, and the company culture is described as supportive, collaborative, and focused on professional growth, aligning with Corgan's stated values.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as an experienced Design Researcher within a specialized innovation team. While the "I" in the title might suggest an initial level, the 5-10 years of experience requirement indicates a mid-to-senior level of expertise within the design research domain. The role is expected to contribute significantly to the firm's research practice and innovation pipeline.

Reporting Structure: The Design Researcher will report directly to the Hugo Director. This implies a close working relationship with the director, who oversees the research and innovation strategy for the firm. The role also necessitates extensive collaboration with various design and engineering teams across Corgan.

Operations Impact: The Design Researcher's impact is crucial for Corgan's competitive edge. By investigating emerging trends and human behaviors, this role directly informs the firm's future design strategies, client offerings, and internal innovation capabilities. The insights generated will influence project outcomes, client satisfaction, and Corgan's reputation as a forward-thinking design leader.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization Advancement: Deepen expertise in specific areas of design research, human behavior, or emerging technologies relevant to architecture, potentially leading to senior researcher or subject matter expert roles within Hugo.

• Practice Development: Contribute to the formalization and expansion of Corgan's design research methodologies, potentially leading to leadership roles in practice management or research operations.

• Cross-Disciplinary Leadership: Transition into roles that bridge research and design execution, such as leading innovation initiatives for specific project types or studios, or moving into design leadership positions.

• Thought Leadership: Develop a public profile through publications, conference presentations, and contributions to industry discourse, establishing expertise and influence.

📝 Enhancement Note: The analysis focuses on how a "Design Researcher I Hugo" role, given the specified experience, fits into a career path. The emphasis is on specialized growth within innovation, practice development, and the potential for thought leadership, which are key aspects for professionals in research and innovation roles within design firms.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is designated as "full-time on-site," indicating a traditional office-based work environment. Corgan's culture emphasizes camaraderie, collaboration, and creativity, suggesting a workspace designed to foster these elements. This likely includes open collaborative areas, private meeting rooms, and potentially dedicated spaces for research or prototyping.

Office Location(s): The primary work location is London, England. This implies working within a major urban center, potentially with access to a vibrant professional community and resources. Corgan may have multiple offices, but this specific role is tied to their London presence.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The emphasis on camaraderie and collaboration suggests a workspace that encourages interaction and knowledge sharing among team members.

• Tools & Technology: Access to modern design and research tools, including software (Adobe Creative Suite, 3D modeling), research platforms (UserTesting, Qualtrics), and potentially prototyping equipment, would be expected.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for regular interaction with the Hugo team, design studios, and other cross-functional departments will be integral to the role.

Work Schedule: The role requires adherence to standard business hours, Monday through Friday, for 40 hours per week. While on-site presence is mandatory, the firm's culture may allow for some flexibility in daily scheduling to accommodate focused work, provided project deadlines and collaborative needs are met.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section extrapolates from the "on-site" designation and Corgan's stated culture of collaboration and creativity. It aims to paint a picture of the physical and interpersonal environment relevant to a design researcher.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess alignment with the required experience, skills, and research methodologies.

• First Interview (Hiring Manager/Director): Focus on your background, research philosophy, experience with specific methodologies, and understanding of the built environment. Expect questions about your approach to ambiguity and collaboration.

• Portfolio Presentation/Case Study: A key stage where you will present selected projects from your portfolio, detailing your research process, insights, and the impact of your work. Be prepared to discuss your role and contributions in detail.

• Team/Cross-Functional Interview: An opportunity to meet potential colleagues and stakeholders from design or engineering teams. This assesses your collaborative style, communication skills, and cultural fit within Corgan.

• Final Interview (Senior Leadership): May involve a broader discussion about your strategic thinking, leadership potential, and alignment with Corgan's innovation vision.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-4 projects that best exemplify your design research skills, showcasing a range of methodologies and problem-solving approaches relevant to architecture and the built environment.

• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your role, the research process (methodologies used, data collected), key insights, how these insights informed design decisions, and the ultimate impact or outcome.

• Highlight Process: Emphasize your systematic approach to research, including how you selected methods, analyzed data, and synthesized findings. Demonstrate your ability to translate complex data into actionable design recommendations.

• Showcase Innovation: Include projects that demonstrate your ability to explore novel concepts, address future trends, or apply emerging technologies.

• Visual Appeal: Ensure your portfolio is visually engaging, well-organized, and easy to navigate. Use high-quality graphics and clear, concise text.

• Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, quantify the impact of your research on design outcomes, client satisfaction, or project success.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for a potential design research challenge or a case study analysis during the interview process. This might involve analyzing a hypothetical design problem, proposing research methodologies, or interpreting a dataset.

• Practice articulating your thought process clearly and concisely, especially under time constraints.

• Familiarize yourself with Corgan's projects and their approach to innovation and design research to tailor your responses.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section provides actionable advice for candidates applying for a design research role, emphasizing the critical importance of a well-structured portfolio and clear communication of research impact. The interview process is outlined to prepare candidates for the typical stages and focus areas.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• User Research Platforms: Experience with tools like UserTesting, dscout, Qualtrics, or Survey Monkey for conducting user studies, surveys, and gathering qualitative/quantitative feedback.

• Data Analysis & Visualization: Proficiency in tools such as Power BI, Tableau, or similar platforms for analyzing research data and creating compelling visualizations. Graphic design capabilities for data visualization are highly valued.

• 3D Modeling & Design Software: Familiarity with Adobe Creative Suite is a plus. Experience with SketchUp, Revit, or other architectural/interior design 3D modeling programs would be beneficial for understanding design contexts.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to this role's core function, but an understanding of how research insights can inform CRM strategies or automated user journeys might be a plus.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section identifies the specific software and platforms mentioned in the "Qualifications" section, categorizing them by their function within a design research workflow. This provides a clear overview of the expected technical proficiency.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Curiosity-First Mindset: A deep-seated desire to explore, question, and understand, driving the pursuit of new knowledge and innovative solutions.

• Collaboration: A commitment to working effectively in multidisciplinary teams, valuing diverse perspectives and collective problem-solving.

• User-Centricity: A dedication to understanding and prioritizing user needs and experiences in all design and research endeavors.

• Innovation: A proactive approach to exploring emerging trends, technologies, and human behaviors to shape the future of architecture.

• Excellence: A pursuit of high standards in research rigor, design quality, and client service.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Actively engage with designers, engineers, and other stakeholders to ensure research insights are effectively integrated into project lifecycles.

• Open Communication: Foster an environment of transparent and honest communication, where feedback is readily exchanged and constructive dialogue is encouraged.

• Knowledge Sharing: Proactively share research findings, methodologies, and insights with colleagues to build collective knowledge and elevate the firm's expertise.

• Agile & Iterative: Embrace a flexible and iterative approach to research and design, willing to adapt methodologies and solutions based on new information and feedback.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section synthesizes the explicit and implicit values mentioned in the job description, framing them within the context of a design research and innovation team. The focus is on how these values translate into daily work and collaboration.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Bridging Research and Practice: Effectively translating complex research findings and theoretical concepts into practical, actionable design solutions within the constraints of architectural projects.

• Measuring Impact: Quantifying the direct impact of design research on project success, client satisfaction, and Corgan's business objectives can be challenging.

• Navigating Ambiguity: Thriving in a role that inherently involves exploring the unknown, dealing with evolving trends, and shaping future possibilities with incomplete information.

• Integrating Innovation: Championing and integrating new research methodologies and innovative practices into established design workflows and firm culture.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Training: Access to advanced training in human-centered design, specific research methodologies, emerging technologies, and data analytics.

• Industry Engagement: Opportunities to attend conferences, workshops, and engage with academic institutions to stay at the forefront of design research and innovation.

• Mentorship: Potential for mentorship from the Hugo Director and senior members of the design and research teams, guiding career development and skill enhancement.

• Publication & Thought Leadership: Support and encouragement to author articles, present findings, and contribute to Corgan's reputation as a thought leader in the field.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section identifies potential challenges inherent in a cutting-edge research role and frames them as opportunities for growth and skill development, aligning with a candidate's career aspirations.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you used user research to inform a significant design decision. What was the outcome?" - Preparation: Prepare a STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) answer showcasing your research process, insights, and impact. Focus on a project relevant to the built environment.

• "How would you approach researching the impact of emerging technologies on future workplace design?" - Preparation: Outline your methodology, including potential research methods (e.g., trend analysis, expert interviews, scenario planning), data sources, and how you'd synthesize findings for architectural application.

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Corgan's approach to design and innovation, particularly the Hugo team?" - Preparation: Research Corgan's recent projects, publications, and any stated innovation goals. Connect your interests and skills to their specific work.

• "How do you see your role contributing to Corgan's culture of collaboration and curiosity?" - Preparation: Reflect on examples of your collaborative style and how you foster curiosity in your work. Discuss how you'd engage with multidisciplinary teams.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your presentation logically: Problem/Opportunity -> Your Role -> Research Methodology -> Key Insights -> Design Solutions/Recommendations -> Impact/Outcome.

• Visuals: Use compelling visuals – diagrams, photos, mockups, data charts – to illustrate your points. Ensure they are clear and support your narrative.

• Focus on Process: Clearly explain why you chose specific research methods and how you analyzed the data. This demonstrates your strategic thinking.

• Quantify: Wherever possible, use metrics to demonstrate the impact of your research and design recommendations.

• Conciseness: Be mindful of time. Practice your presentation to deliver key messages effectively within the allotted timeframe.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section provides specific, actionable advice for preparing for interviews for this particular role, focusing on strategy, company fit, and portfolio presentation, tailored to a design research position within an architecture firm.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Researcher position:

• Submit your application through Corgan's careers website. Be sure to upload your portfolio as requested; failure to do so may delay review.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight your 5-10 years of experience in design research, specifically mentioning your background in architecture or the built environment. Use keywords from the job description, such as "user studies," "qualitative/quantitative research," "design strategy," and "human-centered design."

• Portfolio Customization: Select 3-4 projects that best showcase your end-to-end research process, from problem definition to actionable design recommendations, with a focus on the built environment. Clearly articulate your role, methodologies, insights, and any quantifiable impact.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your research philosophy, methodologies, and project outcomes. Prepare specific examples using the STAR method, and research Corgan's work to align your answers with their innovation and design focus.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.